Which Type of Cavity Filling is Best?

Which Type of Cavity Filling is Best?

There are definite differences between amalgam (silver fillings), and composite (tooth colored fillings). When it comes down to it, having your tooth fixed is the most important part of the equation. However, knowing the advantages and disadvantages of amalgam fillings and tooth colored fillings may help you make the best choice for your circumstances. Sometimes cosmetics makes the decision easy, while other times, your budget and insurance might dictate which type of cavity filling to choose.

Composite Resin Fillings

These cavity fillings are made of a mixture made from finely ground glass and plastic. For smaller cavities, your family dentist can apply the filling directly to your tooth and use a blue light that hardens the material quickly.

If you have a large filling or broken tooth, your dentist may need to make a mold of the tooth. A dental prosthetic laboratory or your dentist can make the filling. During a second appointment, your dentist can cement the filling to your tooth.

Advantages

  • Composite Resin (tooth colored fillings) are made to match the exact color of your tooth, so they are aesthetically more attractive than other types of fillings.
  • They can typically be completed in one appointment.
  • They make the tooth stronger than it would be with an amalgam filling.
  • The tooth does not have to be ridged to get the filling to fit properly.

Disadvantages

  • Composite fillings cost more than amalgam fillings.
  • They take a little more time to place.
  • It is unclear if they last longer than amalgam fillings.

Many people choose tooth colored filling for permanent teeth, but use amalgam fillings for the child’s baby teeth, because the cost difference is considerable.

Amalgam Fillings

These fillings are often referred to as silver fillings, however, they are actually composed of zinc, copper and mercury. They are typically used to fill back teeth or baby teeth.

Advantages

  • They are strong and easily withstand the force of chewing.
  • Amalgam fillings are less costly than other options.
  • They can be completed in just one visit to the dentist.
  • They last 10 or more years.

Disadvantages

  • Amalgam fillings do not match your teeth. They are a silver color.
  • They can corrode and tarnish over time. This causes discoloration of the teeth around them.
  • The dentist has to create undercuts and ledges to hold the filling, as it does not bond to your teeth.
  • Some people are allergic to metals in the filling.

If you need a routine dental check-up, or know you need dental work done, contact Family SmileCare Center today at 319-362-8657.

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